Rep. Sam Graves

This resolution supports the designation of National FFA Week. It also (1) recognizes the important role of the National FFA Organization (Future Farmers of America) in developing the next generation of globally conscious leaders who will change the world; and (2) celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Give the Gift of Blue program, which has donated more than 17,000 FFA blue jackets to FFA members in need.

Maddy summaryThe SAFER at the Border Act prohibits the U.S. Department of Homeland Security from temporarily admitting (paroling) certain individuals at the border. It defines "known terrorists" (those arrested, charged, or convicted for terrorism), "suspected terrorists" (reasonably suspected of terrorism), and "special interest aliens" (those with potential terrorism links based on travel patterns). The bill explicitly bans parole for these individuals, even for humanitarian reasons or public benefit, and also prohibits parole for refugees. Additionally, it allows states to sue the Department of Homeland Security if they suffer financial harm exceeding $100 from the parole of such individuals.

Freedom from Unfair Gun Taxes Act of 2024 This bill prohibits states or localities from imposing a levy or collecting an excise tax on the sale of a firearm, ammunition, or any part or component thereof, by a manufacture or retailer.

Maddy summaryHRES 1371 is a House resolution condemning the Biden Administration and Vice President Kamala Harris for failing to secure the U.S. border. It cites statistics including over 9.7 million illegal immigration encounters since 2021 and the end of the Remain in Mexico program as evidence. As a symbolic resolution with no policy changes, it publicly expresses the House's disapproval of current border policies without altering any laws or enforcement actions.

Maddy summaryHR 9140 requires the Secretary of the Interior to issue a report within 180 days of enactment about how mine subsidence affects communities. The report must detail economic and welfare impacts on communities and describe current Department efforts to minimize subsidence risks. This procedural bill mandates a review of existing conditions but does not change laws or create new requirements. It directly affects communities near active or abandoned mines experiencing land sinking from underground mining.

Maddy summary# Summary of Water Resources Development Act This comprehensive legislation authorizes numerous water infrastructure projects across the United States, with a focus on flood control, water supply, wastewater management, environmental restoration, and shoreline protection. Key elements include: 1. **Project Authorizations**: The act authorizes funding for hundreds of specific water infrastructure projects across all 50 states, with significant allocations for: - Water and wastewater infrastructure ($200 million for San Diego County, $100 million for Kings County NY, $100 million for Mohawk River area) - Flood control and stormwater management (particularly in coastal and riverine areas) - Environmental restoration projects 2. **Key Amendments**: - Increased funding for the Upper Mississippi River restoration program ($15 million for FY 2024, $20 million annually thereafter) - Modified the Santa Ana River Mainstem project to treat Santiago Creek as a separable element - Reduced navigation as an authorized purpose for the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam - Increased funding for the Missouri River levee system ($65 million) 3. **Specific Project Highlights**: - $100 million for water infrastructure in Kings County, New York (addressing combined sewer overflows) - $50 million for environmental infrastructure in Broward County, Florida - $25 million for water infrastructure in Delaware's coastal communities - $20 million for water infrastructure in the Lake Tahoe Basin - $30 million for Oakland-Alameda Estuary water infrastructure 4. **Program Changes**: - Established a Western Washington State environmental assistance program - Modified the New York and New Jersey Harbor study to maximize public benefits - Added new projects to the lakes program (East Lake Tohopekaliga, Dillon Lake, etc.) - Authorized conveyances of property to local governments (e.g., Los Angeles fire station facility) 5. **Funding Details**: - The legislation contains numerous specific funding allocations ranging from $100,000 to $200 million for various water infrastructure projects - Includes provisions for cost-sharing arrangements, with Federal shares typically at 75% for new projects The legislation represents a significant investment in water infrastructure, with a focus on addressing aging infrastructure, improving water quality, reducing flood risks, and enhancing environmental protection across diverse geographic regions in the United States.

Maddy summaryHJRES 164 is a congressional resolution seeking to block a rule issued by the Department of Commerce regarding firearms license requirements. It directly targets the rule published in the Federal Register (89 Fed. Reg. 34680), which would have revised licensing procedures for firearms dealers. If passed, the resolution would prevent this rule from taking effect by invoking the congressional disapproval process under federal law. The bill does not create new regulations but aims to halt an existing rule affecting gun license applicants and dealers.

Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution (HCONRES 113) is a symbolic congressional tribute honoring former President George H.W. Bush on the occasion of his 100th birthday. It recognizes his life, public service, and legacy without creating any new laws or affecting specific individuals or groups. The resolution formally acknowledges his career achievements, including his military service, presidency, and contributions to policy like the Americans with Disabilities Act, while expressing Congress's gratitude to him and his family. As a commemorative resolution, it has no binding effect or policy impact.

Maddy summaryHR 8653 authorizes the posthumous award of a Congressional Gold Medal to Major Thomas D. Howie, a U.S. Army officer who died during the Battle of Normandy in WWII. The bill specifies the medal will be presented to his nephew, Tom Howie, or his next of kin, and then permanently displayed at The Citadel Museum. It also permits the U.S. Mint to produce and sell bronze duplicates to cover costs. This is a commemorative measure honoring Major Howie's military service and sacrifice, with no substantive policy changes.

Maddy summaryHR 5403, the CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act, prohibits the Federal Reserve from issuing or facilitating central bank digital currency (CBDC) directly or indirectly to individuals through financial institutions. It specifically bans Federal Reserve banks from offering digital products to individuals, maintaining individual accounts, or using CBDC for monetary policy implementation. The bill also clarifies that its restrictions do not apply to existing physical cash or private, permissionless digital payment systems. This bill directly affects the Federal Reserve's ability to develop or deploy a government-run digital dollar. The law aims to prevent the Federal Reserve from creating a digital currency that could enable transaction tracking or government oversight of personal financial activity.